Agua Poquita Soil and Water Conservation District #321

08/16/2026

Become aware.

Pasture mealybug has spread to 79 counties in Texas, putting grazing and forage grasses at risk. Losses could run $100 million to more than $1 billion a year, AgriLife Extension economists say.

Our updated fact sheet covers Centric 40WG, the first EPA-approved treatment, plus ID and monitoring tips. Get it here 🔗 tx.ag/PastureMealybugUpdate

07/30/2026

Agua Poquita SWCD Congratulates Mr. Ricardo Chapa on a well deserved award!!

🎉 Congratulations to Ricardo Chapa, TSSWCB’s Employee of the Quarter!

Ricardo has dedicated nearly 18 years to TSSWCB and currently serves as Regional Manager of the Harlingen Regional Office. His hard work, leadership, and commitment to conservation are evident in everything he does; from ensuring his office continues to exceed Water Quality Management Program goals to supporting Area III awards, workshops, SWCD projects, and providing training and guidance to 319 technicians.

Ricardo is always willing to lend a hand, go the extra mile, and do what it takes to support his team and the agency.

Thank you, Ricardo, for your dedication to TSSWCB’s mission and for setting an outstanding example of service and leadership. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! 👏🎉

06/12/2026

06/09/2026

Below is an informational graphic of the New World Screwworm vs Common Blow Fly that was shared to us.

As more people are concerned, more suspect cases are being examined. Fortunately a majority have been secondary screwworm.

06/04/2026

AUSTIN, TX- On June 3, 2026, the Texas Animal Health Commission (TAHC) received confirmation of a detection of New World screwworm (NWS) in Zavala County, Texas. A sample collected from a three-week-old calf with an umbilical lesion was identified and confirmed as NWS by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa. There are currently no further confirmed detections in animals in Texas.

Read the full press release here: https://bit.ly/6-3-26NWS

05/13/2026

Your input is requested to prioritize each land use as it relates to overall concerns at the Local Work Group meeting Thursday, May 28, 2026 at the Garza Party Barn in Benavides. Registration starts at 8:00am. Meeting will begin at 8:30. SOUTH TX RANGE AND WILDLIFE MONITORING WORKSHOP immediately following the meeting.
TOPICS: MONITORING BASICS, UPLAND BIRD MONITORING, DEER, RANGE and CATTLE MONITORING.

Registration fee is $5.00.
Lunch provided.

RSVP BY Thursday, MAY 21st.
361-256-3342 ext. - 3 Lupita Contreras

SEE YOU There!

05/03/2026

As Texas Soil & Water Stewardship Week comes to a close, we’re reminded of an important truth: Soil is where it all begins. Healthy soil supports our native habitats, sustains agriculture, protects water resources, and strengthens the landscapes we depend on every day. When we invest in soil conservation, we’re investing in a healthier, more resilient Texas for generations to come. Thank you for joining us in celebrating ! Check out our Stewardship Week message here: http://bit.ly/472KsnF

05/01/2026

Healthy soil helps the land adapt to changing conditions. By improving water infiltration, strengthening plant growth, and supporting soil structure, well-managed soil helps reduce the impacts of drought, flooding, and other extreme weather events. Stewardship practices that protect soil today help build more resilient landscapes for the future. Check out our Stewardship Week message here: http://bit.ly/472KsnF